WCPCL looks at "Turning Tide on Poverty"

The Winston County Partners for Community Living met with Rachel Welborn, a Program Manager with the Southern Rural Development Center at their regular meeting on Thursday Night (3-24). Ms. Welborn presented information about a program available called "Turning the Tide on Poverty" designed to promote community involvement in fighting the issues of poverty. Mississppi was one of several southern states to begin initial projects last year when Neshoba and Lauderdale participated as pilot programs. Representatives from Neshoba County were also present to answer questions about the program's impact and implementation.

Based at MSU and working with the MSU Extension Service, SRDC attempts to address development issues across the rural South. "Turning the Tide on Poverty" is patterned after a similar successful program developed in the Northwest United States that strives to include all social and economic levels of the population in promoting civic participation and improving economic well-being within a community. Welborn indicated that by developing "community circles" of individuals to discuss local issues and implement action to address these issues, communities can move forward.

In Lauderdale County, the program was able to improve dialogue and access between low income parents and school officials and in Neshoba County, the local food pantry was not only able to increase the quantity and distribution of food to those in need but was also able to increase the quality of available food by working with a large local retailer.

After discussion, WCPCL agreed to pursue the program further for Winston County. WCPCL is also currently in the process of developing a resource guide for the area that includes all sources of assistance through charitable, governmental and civic organizations. Their next meeting is scheduled for 6 pm on April 14 at the Louisville City Hall. Any interested party is urged to attend. For more information, contact WCPCL President Frank Cooper or contact the Louisville Mayor's Office at 662-773-9201. For more information on SRDC and the "Turning the Tide on Poverty" Program, visit their website at: http://www.srdc.msstate.edu/tide